“Out of our beliefs are born deeds; out of our deeds we form habits; out of our habits grows our character and on our character, we build our destiny.” – Henry Hancock
Are you experienced, skilled and gifted, yet the results you are seeking seem to elude you?
Does your language say one thing while your behavior says something completely different?
Maybe the words you are using are not painting a picture that inspires you to take action. Sounds crazy? Well, it’s not!
In the movie The Secret, they say that our thoughts become things. That what you think about you bring about. Your internal communication shapes or creates your external outcomes. It is also true that before a word can become a thing or evoke an action, it must first create a compelling, emotional image in our mind.
In this session, I share why the words we use must evoke pictures that inspire action. In this video, you will learn how to sow ten habits that reap the character of a leader.
Do You Lead With Character?
We’ve all experienced those instances when what we say and what we do don’t line up.
Consider your character as the total of your daily habits executed over time. A habit is something you regularly do. It is your automatic way of being. The things you say and the actions you take without conscious thought. Patterns of behavior you acquired through frequent repetition. We learn habits; however, we perform them unconsciously.
The result is you become known for what you habitually do. That, in turn, shapes how you show up in the world, the life you design, and your character. Your habits determine your future and will most often determine the results you can create. The opportunity lies in understanding that you can change your life’s direction by changing your habits.
Habits determine 95% of a person’s behavior.
Have you ever used a word yet unsure how to become that word in your life? You grasp the word’s definition, yet you are uncertain of the actions that would enable you to embody the word and give it life. If a word does not evoke a picture, it is less likely to inspire action. When actions, thoughts and words are disconnected, you end up out of alignment. However, when words paint a picture in your mind, you act according to what you see. You essentially bring the word to life.
I have learned that all successful people and champions possess the same habits. Ten habits that, when mastered, are a formula for success. Let’s look at the ten habits of successful people and the behaviors you can implement to align your actions with your words.
Success Habit #1: Visionary
Your vision describes what you believe. It is a vivid and exciting idea, a picture that stretches you. A vision can only exist beyond your comfort zone. You are always required to learn, expand and grow to fulfill any vision. An image that you create, a vivid picture in your mind is your true north. It pulls you into action.
Success Habit #2: Clear Purpose
Your purpose is grounded in service and a desire to contribute to or impact others. It is to inspire, influence and at times change a world view. It is the fuel for your action. Your purpose guides what you do to create what you believe.
Success Habit #3: Positive Self-Image
A strong belief in yourself, self-image is to believe that within you lies unique strength and talent. It is to know that you are capable of learning and mastering the skills necessary to achieve your goals. It is to understand that your actions, experience and challenges over the years have prepared you for the journey ahead.
Success Habit #4: Intentional
Your actions are on purpose. You set clear targets, establish clear and measurable goals, and line up your efforts to ensure you achieve your goals. It is to act as if you have blinders on. You are focused on where you are going. You are not derailed by challenges or easily distracted.
Success Habit #5: Commitment
You are 100 percent committed and pursue your goals and vision until achieved. Fatigue, fear and uncertainty do not stop you. You are willing to ride the ups and downs to overcome all challenges. Your commitment is to learn, grow, and expand to become the person capable of fulfilling your goals, purpose, and vision. You are internally motivated.
Success Habit #6: Persistence
You understand that your commitment is kept alive through the habit of persistence. Persistence allows you to overcome challenges. When life knocks you down, you always get back up, often picking up a lesson on the way. You do not fail. Perceived failure is an opportunity to learn a lesson, and keep moving.
Success Habit #7: Manage Emotions
You manage your energy, not allowing circumstances to determine your attitude, behaviors or habits.
Success Habit #8: Enthusiasm
Your energy is infectious. Your attitude inspires others. When people are around you, they believe they can achieve more. You are a source of inspiration. You have influence.
Success Habit #9: Value Time
You understand that time is a valuable resource that, once lost, you can never get back. You have learned to master yourself in time. You respect your time and teach others to respect your time. You are productive and strategic with your time.
Success Habit #10: Personal Integrity
You honor your word even when no one is watching. You understand that your confidence, self-esteem, and trust are created by being true to your word. You are empowered, and your dreams are given life through personal integrity.
Success leaves clues. No matter where you desire success, habits are essential. This week focuses on two habits that will allow you to begin to move toward the success you envision.